rowland's castle uk | Whatever you want to know
Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Hampshire, Rowlands Castle is the quintessential English village that captures the charm and serenity of rural life while offering a glimpse into the town’s rich past. With its historic roots, natural beauty, and strong sense of community, this village offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern city life. The town is located 2.9 miles (4.7 km) north of Havant in Hampshire/West Sussex.
The heart of the village is the village green, which is somewhat like a lung. Spanned by roads, it is about 250 yards (230 m) from the fort and about 40 yards (37 m) in length.
The village takes its name from a motte-and-bailey fort located south of Redhill Road and west of the railway line, east of what is now the village center.
A Glimpse of the History of the Village
Rowland’s Castle’s history stretches back several centuries, with the town believed to derive its name from an 11th-century motte-and-bailey castle. Although the original ruins no longer stand, the village itself is a monument to bygone life in England. Over the years, it has played roles both large and small, from being an ancient hunting ground for royalty to being thought of as a strategic location during various historical events, including the Napoleonic Wars.
The remaining part of the original castle, Rowland’s Castle Motte, still evokes a medieval feel for tourists. Visitors can explore the site and imagine the bustling activity that once filled the area. There’s more: St. Hubba’s Church, a beautiful example of Norman architecture, offers a peaceful place to soak in the countryside. The village’s unique wall paintings provide a glimpse of the religious art and local crafts of medieval England, dating before the 14th century.
The Village’s Tranquil Countryside and Outdoor Adventure
Beyond the historic roots of the village, Rowlands Castle offers an ideal retreat for nature lovers. Surrounded by the rolling hills of the South Downs National Park, it provides easy access to miles of walking and cycling trails. The scenic area features ancient woodlands, open fields, and charming cottages, making the village perfect for those who want to connect with nature.
Staunton Country Park, close to the village, is a family-friendly destination with expansive lakes, woodland walks, and even an ancient garden with exotic plants. Whether you are a bird watcher, hiker, or just someone looking for a peaceful picnic spot, the natural beauty of the park will captivate you. For those with an adventurous spirit, the park also offers horse riding and orienteering.
The Entrance to Rowland’s Castle Adventure
Rowlands Castle is small in size but well-connected thanks to its historic railway station. Established in 1859, the station connects the village to major cities such as Portsmouth and London, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway. The station, with much of its Victorian character intact, serves as a reminder of the railway’s transformative power in connecting rural England to the wider world.
A Prosperous Village Community
Rowlands Castle may be small, but it boasts a vibrant community spirit. Local events and village gatherings are common, with Rowlands Castle Village Fair held every summer. The fair provides a wonderful opportunity to experience historic English village life, with stalls, games, and displays of local crafts. The fair is a celebration of local talent, production, and friendship, attracting both residents and tourists.
The village also has cozy pubs and eateries, where you can enjoy locally sourced food and a pint of ale in a welcoming environment. The Robin Hood Inn, one of the main historic pubs in the village, offers hearty food and a relaxed atmosphere, perfectly complementing the ideal rural setting.
Surrounding Areas
Although Rowlands Castle is a delightful destination, its proximity to other notable places makes it a great starting point for touring and exploring the wider Hampshire and West Sussex regions. The vibrant town of Portsmouth, with its historic dockyards and naval heritage, is only a short train ride away. Meanwhile, the coastline of Chichester Harbour, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is the perfect destination for those looking to enjoy the South Coast’s beaches, sailing, and wildlife conservation.
Notable Figures of Rowlands Castle
Former Van Morrison guitarist and Britain’s Got Talent contestant Herbie Armstrong once ran The Fountain Inn in the center of the village on the village green. His weekly live music evenings attracted music lovers from all over the village.
Ace Wilkinson, the village’s former British No. 1 tennis player, is active at the local, county, and national levels, making him a village pride.
Rowlands Castle is more than just a village—it is a delightful part of English history and village life. Whether you’re drawn to its historic sites, natural beauty, or its community, a visit to Rowlands Castle promises a trip to the heart of rural England. Whether you are a history lover, nature enthusiast, or someone looking for peace and tranquility, this village offers something special for everyone.